Beyond the metaphysical: the growth and dynamics of atheist identity in Nigeria

This paper examines the trends and underlying drivers of contemporary atheism in Nigeria. Drawing on qualitative data from 76 participants and five waves of World Values Survey (WVS) data, we analyse the historical dynamics of atheist identity and its sociocultural triggers in the Nigerian context. Findings show that the percentage of Nigerians identifying as unreligious has steadily increased since the early 2000s, particularly among male youths under the age of 30. Contrary to classical secularisation theory, which links atheism to scientific and technological advancement, this growth is primarily driven by personal discontent with the doctrines and practices of Nigeria’s dominant religions, as well as their perceived complicity in Nigeria’s socio-political decline. In this context, atheist identity emerges as a subtle form of protest or civic activism against perceived religious dysfunction. The study offers new insights into the complex intersections of belief, identity, and political expression in contemporary Nigeria.